Basil Pesto
Prep Time
15 mins
Total Time
15 mins
Pesto is a bright flavorful sauce made from lots of fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese and pine nuts. The word "pesto" derives from the fact that it is traditionally made with a mortar and pestle. While you can use a food processor steps in to speed up the process, a mortar and pestle will still give you the best results.
Course:
Entrées, Sauces
Cuisine:
Italian
Keyword:
Sauces, Make Ahead, Quick and Easy, Vegetarian, Paleo Friendly, Gluten Free, Pasta
Servings: 4 Makes ½ cup
Calories: 207 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 clove garlic
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup pine nuts
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup more if needed
- squeeze of lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
-
Using a food processor, running with the lid on, drop the garlic and Parmesan cheese down the feed tube and process. Add the pine nuts and process again. Add the basil leaves. Drizzle in the olive oil slowly and process until everything comes together and the pesto is the consistency you’re looking for. Season to taste with lemon juice, salt and pepper. Set aside.
Recipe Video
Nutrition Facts
Basil Pesto
Amount Per Serving (2 tablespoons)
Calories 207
Calories from Fat 189
% Daily Value*
Fat 21g32%
Saturated Fat 3g15%
Cholesterol 6mg2%
Sodium 242mg10%
Potassium 86mg2%
Carbohydrates 2g1%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 1g1%
Protein 4g8%
Vitamin A 685IU14%
Vitamin C 2.4mg3%
Calcium 91mg9%
Iron 1mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.